Freezer breakfast burritos are a convenient and practical solution for busy mornings when time is limited. These make-ahead meals allow you to enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast without the stress of cooking from scratch every day. By preparing a batch of breakfast burritos in advance and freezing them, you ensure that a quick, nutritious meal is always within reach, whether you’re rushing out the door or simply want a hassle-free start to your day.
Not only do freezer breakfast burritos save you time, but they also help you save money. By purchasing ingredients in bulk and making multiple burritos at once, you reduce the cost per meal significantly compared to buying breakfast on the go. Additionally, these burritos can be customized to your taste, ensuring that you’re not only saving time and money but also enjoying a breakfast that’s perfectly suited to your preferences.
Ingredients Breakdown
Eggs
Eggs are a staple ingredient in breakfast burritos, offering versatility and a rich source of protein and essential vitamins. Scrambled eggs provide a soft, fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with other fillings. They’re also highly customizable; you can add spices, herbs, or even a splash of milk for creamier eggs. Their nutritional benefits include high-quality protein, vitamin D, and choline, making them a nourishing start to your day.
Flour Tortillas
Flour tortillas serve as the foundation of the burrito, holding all the delicious ingredients together. When choosing tortillas, opt for ones that are soft and pliable to prevent cracking when wrapping. An 8-inch size is ideal for individual servings. Whole wheat tortillas are a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option, offering more fiber and nutrients.
Sausage
Sausage adds a savory, meaty flavor to the burrito. Pork sausage is a popular choice, but you can also use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. For those following a vegetarian diet, plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu seasoned with spices are excellent alternatives that provide similar texture and taste.
Salsa
Salsa brings a burst of flavor and moisture to the burrito. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or spicy, the key is choosing a salsa that complements the other ingredients. Fresh salsa adds a vibrant taste, while jarred salsa offers convenience. If you’re adventurous, consider making your own salsa with fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for breakfast burritos, contributing a creamy texture and a rich, tangy flavor. It melts beautifully, holding the burrito ingredients together. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend of cheeses can be used to switch up the flavor profile.
Possible Add-Ins and Variations
To make your burritos even more nutritious and flavorful, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. For extra protein, black beans, refried beans, or leftover roasted chicken are great additions. You can also customize the spice level by adding hot sauce, jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the eggs.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To prepare your freezer breakfast burritos efficiently, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. First, a frying pan is crucial for cooking the sausage and scrambling the eggs. A non-stick frying pan is ideal as it prevents the eggs from sticking and ensures even cooking. You’ll also need a spatula for stirring the eggs and flipping the sausage. A silicone or rubber spatula is best to avoid scratching your non-stick pan.
Mixing bowls are useful for holding the cooked sausage and eggs separately as you prepare the other ingredients. Choose bowls that are large enough to hold all your fillings without spilling over.
When it comes to assembling the burritos, a cutting board provides a clean surface for laying out the tortillas and adding the fillings. A sharp knife is also handy for chopping any additional ingredients, like vegetables or herbs.
Optional tools that can make the process even smoother include a tortilla warmer, which helps keep your tortillas soft and pliable, making them easier to fold without cracking. Additionally, a griddle can be used for quickly warming multiple tortillas at once, while freezer bags or a vacuum sealer ensure your burritos are stored airtight, preserving their freshness for longer.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cooking the Sausage
Start by heating a frying pan over medium heat. Add your sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. To ensure the sausage is flavorful and not greasy, drain any excess fat by tilting the pan and using a spoon to remove the grease, or transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels. This step is crucial to avoid sogginess in your burritos later on.
2. Scrambling the Eggs
In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, or add other spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor. Heat a clean, non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Pour the eggs into the pan and let them sit for a moment before gently stirring with a spatula. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the eggs are just set but still soft and slightly creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as the eggs will cook slightly more when reheated.
3. Assembling the Burritos
Lay out a tortilla on a cutting board. Start by placing a portion of scrambled eggs in the center of the tortilla, followed by an even layer of browned sausage. Next, add a spoonful of salsa to the top, spreading it evenly to avoid wet spots. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Ensure that the fillings are evenly distributed and leave some space at the edges of the tortilla to make wrapping easier.
4. Wrapping Techniques
To wrap the burrito, fold the sides of the tortilla inward towards the center, covering part of the filling. Then, fold the bottom edge up over the filling, tucking it under slightly to secure the contents. Continue rolling the burrito tightly until it’s completely wrapped. To prevent leaks or breakage during freezing, wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For added protection, you can then place the wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or container. This ensures they stay fresh and retain their shape while stored.
Freezing the Burritos
1. Pre-Freezing Process
Flash freezing is a key step in preserving the texture and flavor of your breakfast burritos. After assembling and wrapping the burritos, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching each other. This method ensures that the burritos freeze individually and do not stick together, making it easier to grab one at a time later. Flash freeze the burritos for about 1 hour, or until they are firm to the touch. This quick freeze helps to lock in the moisture and prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy, which can happen if they freeze too slowly.
2. Storage Tips
Once the burritos are flash frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags to prevent freezer burn, which can negatively affect the taste and texture. If using a container, ensure it’s tightly sealed. Label each bag or container with the date of preparation and the contents, so you can easily track how long they’ve been in the freezer. Organize the burritos in your freezer so that the oldest ones are at the front, making it easier to use them in a timely manner.
3. Shelf Life
Properly frozen breakfast burritos can be stored for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality. To determine if a burrito is no longer good, look for signs of freezer burn, such as discolored spots or a dry, leathery texture on the tortilla. If a burrito has an off smell or has been stored for longer than 3 months, it’s best to discard it to avoid potential food safety issues. Keeping track of your freezer inventory will help you enjoy your burritos at their best quality.
Reheating Instructions
1. Microwave Method
To reheat a frozen breakfast burrito in the microwave, first remove any plastic wrap or foil. Place the burrito on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. The damp paper towel helps to retain moisture, preventing the tortilla from becoming too dry or tough during reheating. Microwave the burrito on high for 1 to 2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power. If the burrito is not fully heated through, flip it over and microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. Let the burrito sit for a minute before eating, as this allows the heat to distribute evenly.
2. Alternative Reheating Methods
If you prefer not to use a microwave, there are other effective ways to reheat your burritos.
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil, then rewrap the burrito in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped burrito directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures a crispy tortilla and evenly warmed fillings.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the unwrapped burrito in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula. This method gives you a crispy exterior while heating the burrito evenly inside.
Variations and Customizations
1. Vegetarian Options
For those looking to make their breakfast burritos vegetarian, there are plenty of delicious alternatives to sausage. Plant-based proteins like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or meatless sausage crumbles work well and provide a similar texture to traditional sausage. Tofu can be seasoned with spices like turmeric, cumin, and chili powder to mimic the flavors of sausage. Additionally, adding hearty vegetables such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the burrito. Black beans or pinto beans are also excellent choices that add protein and fiber while keeping the burrito filling and satisfying.
2. Spicing It Up
To add some heat to your breakfast burritos, consider experimenting with different types of salsa or fresh peppers. Spicy salsas made with jalapeños, habaneros, or chipotle peppers can elevate the burrito’s flavor profile. You can also add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers directly into the scrambled eggs or sausage for an extra kick. Hot sauce, such as sriracha or a smoky chipotle sauce, can be drizzled over the fillings before wrapping for those who love their breakfast with a bit of fire.
3. Healthier Alternatives
For a healthier version of the breakfast burrito, swap out regular flour tortillas for whole wheat or grain-based tortillas, which offer more fiber and nutrients. Using low-fat or reduced-fat cheese can help cut down on calories and saturated fat without sacrificing flavor. Egg whites or egg substitutes are great alternatives to whole eggs, reducing cholesterol and fat content while still providing protein. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value and add more color and texture.
4. Cultural Twists
Incorporating flavors from different cuisines can make your breakfast burritos more exciting and diverse. For a Mexican-inspired twist, use chorizo instead of regular sausage and add refried beans or avocado. A Mediterranean version could include feta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, offering a fresh and tangy flavor. If you’re in the mood for a southwestern flavor, try adding roasted corn, black beans, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Each cultural twist brings new flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy a different type of breakfast burrito every day of the week.
Tips for Making the Perfect Freezer Burrito
1. Preventing Soggy Burritos
One of the keys to a successful freezer burrito is ensuring that it stays firm and not soggy when reheated. To achieve this, it’s important to drain any excess liquid from the ingredients before assembling the burrito. For instance, after cooking the sausage, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any grease. Similarly, if you’re using salsa, either drain it slightly or use a thicker salsa to avoid adding too much moisture. Additionally, avoid overfilling the burritos, as excess filling can lead to sogginess.
2. Keeping Tortillas Soft
To prevent your tortillas from cracking or becoming too hard during freezing, it’s important to keep them pliable. Warm the tortillas briefly before assembling the burritos; this makes them more flexible and easier to wrap without breaking. If you notice the tortillas are drying out, you can lightly dampen them with a sprinkle of water and then heat them for a few seconds in the microwave. Wrapping the burritos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil also helps maintain the softness of the tortillas during freezing.
3. Making Burritos in Bulk
When making burritos in bulk for meal prepping, efficiency is key. Set up an assembly line with all your ingredients prepared and laid out, allowing you to quickly and easily assemble multiple burritos at once. Flash freeze the burritos in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to freezer bags or containers. Label and date the bags to keep track of freshness, and store them in an organized manner for easy access. This method allows you to prepare a week’s worth or more of breakfasts in one go, saving time and ensuring you always have a ready meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, but be aware that corn tortillas are generally smaller and less pliable, making them more prone to cracking when wrapping. To prevent this, warm the corn tortillas before assembling and consider using two tortillas layered together to provide extra strength. Corn tortillas also offer a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
2. How do I prevent freezer burn?
Freezer burn occurs when food is exposed to air, leading to dehydration and a change in texture. To prevent freezer burn, ensure that your burritos are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For extra protection, place the wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it, and use freezer-safe materials to protect against moisture loss.
3. What other fillings can I use?
The possibilities for burrito fillings are nearly endless. In addition to eggs, sausage, cheese, and salsa, you can add ingredients like black beans, refried beans, diced vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, spinach), roasted potatoes, or avocado. For extra flavor, try adding spices, fresh herbs, or different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or feta.
4. Can I bake the burritos instead of microwaving them?
Yes, you can bake frozen burritos instead of microwaving them. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), remove any plastic wrap, and wrap the burritos in aluminum foil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the burritos are heated through. This method results in a crispier tortilla, which some people prefer.
5. Is it necessary to flash freeze the burritos before storing?
While not absolutely necessary, flash freezing your burritos before storing them is highly recommended. Flash freezing prevents the burritos from sticking together and helps maintain the texture of the tortilla and fillings. This step is particularly useful if you’re making a large batch and want to store them without the risk of them freezing into a solid block.
6. Can I freeze burritos that have been made with leftover scrambled eggs?
Yes, you can freeze burritos made with leftover scrambled eggs. Just be sure that the eggs are fully cooked and have cooled to room temperature before assembling the burritos. This helps maintain the texture and prevents excess moisture from making the burritos soggy. Properly wrapping and storing the burritos will also help preserve their quality during freezing.
Conclusion
Making and freezing breakfast burritos offers a convenient, time-saving solution for busy mornings, providing a nutritious and delicious meal that’s ready in minutes. By preparing these burritos in advance, you not only save money but also enjoy the flexibility of customizing them to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a classic combination or want to experiment with different variations, freezer breakfast burritos are a versatile option that can be tailored to any palate. Try out different fillings, share your creations with others, and enjoy a hassle-free start to your day!
PrintEasy Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Description
These Easy Freezer Breakfast Burritos are a lifesaver for busy mornings! Packed with protein from scrambled eggs and sausage, a touch of salsa for flavor, and melted cheddar cheese all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, they provide a hearty and satisfying meal that you can enjoy on the go. By making a batch ahead of time and freezing them, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in minutes—just heat and eat! Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or stocking your freezer with quick breakfast options, these burritos are a perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 6 flour tortillas (8 inch tortillas)
- 1/4 pound sausage
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
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Brown Sausage and set aside in a bowl.
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Scramble all the eggs and set aside in a bowl.
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Layer the eggs, sausage, salsa and cheddar cheese in each tortilla.
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Wrap them to form a burrito.
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To freeze, place all the burritos on a baking sheet.
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Place in the freezer for 1 hour.
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Then move the burritos to a freezer safe bag or container and freezer for up to 3 months.
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To defrost, remove a burrito from the freezer bag. Wrap it with a damp paper towel and reheat it in the microwave for up to 2 minutes.
Notes
Feel free to customize these burritos to suit your tastes and dietary needs. You can easily swap the sausage for a vegetarian protein like tofu or beans, use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option, or add extra veggies for more nutrients. If you’re a fan of spice, try adding hot sauce or jalapeños to kick up the heat. Remember to label and date your burritos before freezing them, so you know how long they’ve been stored. These burritos can be frozen for up to 3 months, making them a convenient option for busy days ahead!